Twelve Pictures of the Months: 4. The April Picture | Yoshimura Kokei 吉村孝敬 | 1769-1836

The image is reminiscent of a maypole. In rural areas (see farmhouse), it was once customary to place a pole on the roof or in front of the house and, as it were, invite spring and fertility with a hana kazari , a "floral decoration." Ethnologists also refer to it as an apotropaic symbol, offering protection against fire, misfortune, and disease. No other image uses such a vibrant red as this one. It clearly marks spring. The bird in the upper bar is a tsugumi thrush; it is also a classic symbol for the season in poetry.